© lesalyen
© lesalyen
Litra Lacydon 450 BC - 410 BC
| Silver | 0.77 g | 10 mm |
| Issuer | Massalia (Gaul) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 450 BC - 410 BC |
| Value | Litra (⅕) |
| Currency | Phocaean Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.77 g |
| Diameter | 10 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#92248 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Wheel of four spokes
Edge
Plain
Comment
The LACYDON legend is on the photo completely outside the blank (usually to the right of the Lacydon God). This "Lacydon" series is divided into two types of reverse, with or without the M on the reverse: this sheet shows the variant with no letter on the reverse.
This type of litra could be related to the coinage of Géla in Sicily, with which Marseille maintained close trade relations until the city was destroyed by the Carthaginians in 405 BC. The river god Lacydon is reminiscent of the river god Gelas. Finally, please refer to Hélène Nicolet-Pierre's excellent commentary on Lacydon in RN. 1983, bibliographical notes, pp. 40-41.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Litra (Lacydon) coin from Massalia (Gaul) is that it features a unique blend of Greek and Celtic influences in its design. The coin's obverse side bears the image of a Greek goddess, likely Athena, while the reverse side features a Celtic-style horse and rider. This blending of cultural influences reflects the diverse cultural heritage of the region in which the coin was minted.
